Bill > HB05019

This bill establishes an Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program for consumer batteries in Connecticut, requiring battery producers to create and fund a comprehensive battery collection and recycling system. Starting January 1, 2027, producers of portable and medium format batteries must participate in a battery stewardship organization that will develop and implement a state-approved plan for collecting and recycling batteries. The plan must include performance goals for battery collection rates, recycling efficiency (at least 60% for rechargeable and 70% for primary batteries), and public awareness. Battery stewardship organizations will be responsible for creating a convenient, free, and accessible battery collection network across the state, providing collection containers and educational materials to collection sites, and ensuring proper recycling of collected batteries. Retailers will be prohibited from selling batteries from producers not participating in an approved stewardship plan, and producers must mark batteries with identification and chemical composition starting in 2028 and 2030, respectively. The bill aims to reduce battery waste, promote recycling, and provide consumers with easy end-of-life management options for batteries. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will oversee the program, review and approve stewardship plans, and may assess an annual administrative fee to battery stewardship organizations.